Someone was watching him. Leo could feel it. Whether it was friend or foe was his only concern. He was far enough away from camp that it was most likely an enemy. No one but Edward knew he trained in this spot. He drew his bow and aimed for his target. He didn't want to give away that he knew he was being watched. He scanned the trees using his peripheral vision. There was movement on his right. Leo pivoted quickly aiming towards the movement.

"Show yourself if you mean no harm or I won't hesitate to shoot."

A hand appeared raised. "Please don't. I didn't mean to intrude."

A dark haired raven laguz slowly came out from behind the trees. Leo recognized her as one of Tormod's companions helping with the liberation of Daein. She had striking features. Her bright blue eyes almost shined. It was a nice contrast to her dark black hair. Her black wings were spread, seemingly ready to help her take off if needed.

"Why are you out here so far away from camp?" He asked not hiding his suspicion.

It was strange that she would just happen to be in the same spot. If she had followed him then his sense of awareness wasn't what he thought it was.

"I was only curious why one of our own would slink off by themselves so much. Tormod says we should always be on the lookout for traitors or spies."

Leo smirked at her insinuation. "It seems we are alike in one way. We don't trust easily. One can never be too cautious, but I assure you I am no traitor. I've been with Micaiah from the beginning of the Dawn Brigade. We have the same goal."

She looked saddened by his words. "I'm not sure that is truly the case...I'm sorry I can't recall your name?"

"It's Leonardo, but most just call me Leo."

She smiled. "That is a nice name. Mine is Vika."

Leo finally put his bow down. He figured it was safe now. "What did you mean by us not having the same goal? You still don't think you can trust us?"

Vika floated towards him and landed on a nearby rock. Leo found it amazing how bird laguz could fly. He was a little envious.

"You must forgive me, but I find it hard to trust most beorc. Especially archers."

Leo scratched at his head awkwardly. "I apologize if I scared you."

Vika looked saddened again. "Arrows are deadly to my kind but to be caged again...that's the real fear."

Leo noticed her wrists and ankles now. They had scars from being shackled. She rubbed them self-consciously when he looked.

"That's why I'm hesitant working with Daeins. Your interests lie in only saving your own. I'm working towards a world where beorc and laguz can live together peacefully on equal ground. No more slaves, no more fear, and no more hunts. Can you say Micaiah wishes for the same?"

Leo paused to take Vika's words in. "It is true that most Daeins wish only for liberation and to continue their old life before Begnion occupation, but there are others who want what you want. Micaiah herself holds your ideals very close to her heart. She is the commander of this entire army and she also has influence with Prince Pelleas. Together they could change Daein, and with your help, Begnion as well."

Vika studied him. "I might be a fool but I feel like you are telling the truth. I think I can trust you."

Leo smiled. "How about I make you a promise? I will do everything I can to keep you safe through this war so your dreams of peace can come true. Sound like a good deal?"

Vika's face reddened. "You beorc can be so strange sometimes. In that case I promise to look out for you in the same way you have just vowed."

Leo pointed to himself in a mocking manner. "I'm the strange one!?"

The two of them laughed as they headed back to camp. Leo hoped he didn't make a promise he couldn't keep but something about Vika made him believe beorc and laguz truly could live in peace. He would do everything possible to make it come true. Micaiah was a just leader and if anyone could do it, she could.